How to Choose the Right Life Jacket and Use It Correctly
Did you know that boats over five meters in length must have properly sized life jackets or flotation devices for every person on board?
While common sense and caution are the most important tools for any water activity enthusiast, they alone are not enough. The boat must be seaworthy, and you need the right equipment. According to Finnish maritime law, specifically Chapter 1, Section 2 of the Water Traffic Regulation, essential equipment includes:
“An approved life jacket, flotation device, or survival suit for each person on the watercraft, meeting the size and buoyancy requirements suitable for the person's weight and size."
“This regulation does not apply to watercraft regulated separately under the decree on the safety of certain recreational boats (464/1996).”
Other mandatory equipment for boats includes:
- Oar or paddle and anchor with a rope
- Bailing device (pump, bailer, or bucket)
- A properly checked fire extinguisher, required if the watercraft has a flame-operated device, inboard engine, or an outboard motor over 25 kW
Essential Life-Saving Gear: Life Jackets and Inflatable Vests
Life jackets save lives every year and are a crucial piece of safety equipment for anyone venturing onto the water. At Happy Angler, we offer a range of traditional life jackets and inflatable vests for more active use. Check out our selection here.
For young children playing near water, such as at a cottage beach, it's recommended to have them wear a life jacket. However, supervision is still essential!
Comfortable and Practical: Inflatable Vests
Inflatable vests are comfortable and do not impede fishing activities. They are ideal for avid boaters and long fishing trips where comfort is key. Choose the model that suits your needs best and ensure that your safety on the water is not compromised by a lack of proper life jackets. Explore our range of flotation suits as well.
All life jackets and flotation devices sold at Happy Angler comply with personal protective equipment directives and are CE marked. This certification guarantees that the products have been tested and meet European safety standards.
International Standards for Life Jackets
International Maritime Organization (IMO)
- The IMO sets international standards for the safety of life at sea, including the use of life jackets and personal flotation devices (PFDs). The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) outlines requirements for life-saving appliances on ships, including life jackets.
ISO Standards
- The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has developed standards for life jackets (ISO 12402 series). These standards specify the requirements for different types of life jackets, including their design, performance, and testing.
Life Jackets and Inflatable Vests: Choosing According to Buoyancy and Usage
The larger the number marked XXXN on the vests, such as 300N, the greater the buoyancy. For those weighing over 90 kg (about 200 lbs) or taller than 185 cm (about 6 feet 1 inch), a vest marked 300N is recommended. These vests can turn a person to the correct upright position in the water, crucial for ensuring safety.
Types of Life Jackets and Their Uses:
- 50 N Flotation Vests: For use in sheltered waters near the shore where help is close by. Note: These vests are for swimmers only, as they do not turn an unconscious person into a back-floating position.
- 100 N Flotation Vests: Suitable for protected inland waters. They can turn an unconscious person to a back position within about 10 seconds under favorable conditions.
- 150 N Life Jackets: Designed for coastal waters and to be used with foul weather gear, turning an unconscious person to a back position in 5 seconds.
- 275 N Life Jackets: For open seas or extremely bad weather conditions in coastal waters, also turning an unconscious person to a back position in 5 seconds.
- Special Use Vests (50-275 N): For activities like whitewater rafting and kayaking. 50 N vests do not turn an unconscious person to a back-floating position, while 100-275N vests do, within 5-10 seconds depending on buoyancy.
When selecting a life jacket or inflatable vest, consider your weight, water conditions, and planned activities. This ensures your safety and the effectiveness of the vest in emergencies.
General Requirements and Recommendations
- Fit and Condition: Life jackets must be the appropriate size for the intended user and in good, serviceable condition.
- Accessibility: Life jackets should be readily accessible and not stored in a location that requires a key or complicated access.
- Usage: It is highly recommended, and often required, that life jackets be worn at all times on small boats, especially by children, non-swimmers, and during adverse weather conditions.
Key Features to Look for in Life Jackets
- Buoyancy: Adequate buoyancy to keep the wearer afloat.
- Visibility: Bright colors and reflective materials for better visibility in the water.
- Comfort and Fit: Adjustable straps and ergonomic design for comfort during extended wear.
- Durability: Made from durable materials resistant to wear and tear, UV rays, and water.
- Certification: Approved by relevant authorities (e.g., USCG, ISO, CE).
Dry Suits and Flotation Suit Standards
Dry suits fall under the EU personal protective equipment directive (89/686/EEC), guaranteeing safety and suitability. Happy Angler’s flotation suits are ISO-standardized and approved. Check out our selection of dry and flotation suits here.
Maintenance and Proper Use
Regular maintenance and inspection of your flotation gear are crucial. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use, maintenance, and storage. When wearing life jackets, ensure they are properly fitted and all straps, such as the crotch strap, are fastened and adjusted correctly. This prevents the wearer from slipping too low into the water, which could lead to inhaling water.
For inflatable vests, the waist belt must be tightened sufficiently. Life jackets work only if they are chosen according to their intended use, worn when the person falls into the water, and properly fitted.
Enjoy safe and pleasant moments on the water!
